E46 M3 Question & Answer

[wikk3d88]

Update on my search:

Got report from Zeemax on the 05' M3 SMG: Diff pinion seal leak, REAR SUSPENSION TORN, oil pressure valve leak, some other small stuff as well (R15000 quote to fix all problems):argh:
Do I stay away? or negotiate with seller to come down 15k to fix all issues?

Can I trust the rear suspension if it's been torn, then fixed???

I wouldnt. Walk away

 

[//M_POWER]

That's what i thought too.

Found this 2005 M3 (Manual) 111 000km on gumtree, here's the ad:
http://johannesburg.gumtree.co.za/c...E46-M3-2005-Mint-condition-W0QQAdIdZ355385463

Does any1 have any info of this car?

 

[M3_FTW]

The rear subframe issue is well known on the E46 M3's. Negotiate. Get it fixed and you will have an awesome car

 

[P Smit]

I searched for an E46 M3 a year ago and found one with low km's in very good condition, I had to replace the alternator, brake disks, pads end pinion seal though.

I first took test drives in both manual and SMG cars and I liked thhe direct gearshifts of the SMG a lot. I found that the manual cannot compare with the quick SMG shifts.

Do not buy a car with previous accident damage, other serious faults normally pop out and you may end up paying a lot to have it repaired, and alll M parts are expensive. Buy a well cared for car with zero accident damage, check motorplan history as well. Great car and even greater when performance modded!!

 

[Del-Bosc]

raise: This is exactly what i was looking for, this thread i mean, Great info guys.
I was looking at the 135i but i cannot pass the chance to own a M car, any forum member willing to part with their E46 M? sorry for the hijack, to the orignal poster did you get a M ? another question how much should i put away monthly for general maintenance on one of these cars?

 

[//M_POWER]

hi buddy, didnt find one yet..one word of advice, be very patient when looking for an M3. Very important to check motorplan history and the AA multipoint test also good, cause they can tell if it's been in any previous accidents.

I have to either take an M3 with +/- 110 000km or an 2007 AUDI A4 DTM.

Obviously the M3 is "hands down" the better/faster sports car, you cant even compare the 2 vehicles..but Audi CT offered me a DTM with 36000km on clock,1 owner,170kw version and 2 year audi freeway plan.

So i need to choose: M3 (my dream car, but 2 door,outta motor plan etc)
or DTM (peace of mind with warranty, almost new)

tough choice i tell ya...

 

[P Smit]

If you have to buy a family car, the four door Audi is better, if you buy for fun factor, go for an M3!!

Maintenance other than tyres, brakes and suspension bushes from time to time, no real problem. These cars hold out well.